Hartlepool folk urged to have their say on The Rec's future

Football matches are regularly held at The Rec.

The ground, known as The Rec, is predominantly used by football teams, but Hartlepool Borough Council is working to make the space more community-friendly by providing other recreational opportunities.

The council is working in partnership with Groundwork NE and Cumbria to develop a plan for the future of the Rift House Rec.

Initial proposals have been developed as a starting point for discussion, and local people are being urged to give their views at three drop-in consultation events.

The events will take place at the following venues and times: Tuesday, March 8, 5pm-7pm at the Belle Vue Centre in Kendal Road; Wednesday, March 9, 2.30pm-4.30pm at the Orb Centre in Caledonian Road and Saturday, March 12, 10am to noon at the Belle Vue Centre in Kendal Road.

Coun Christopher Akers-Belcher, the leader of the council, said: “Rift House Rec is already a popular and well-used place, mainly by local footballers, but it also has a lot of unlocked potential.

“Ideas put forward for discussion include the provision of new changing rooms incorporating a public toilet, the creation of a new community space that could include a track for use by mums with prams/pushchairs, joggers and fun runners, and the installation of new play and outdoor gym equipment.

“These are only ideas for discussion and no decisions have been taken. I would urge people to attend the consultation events and feedback their views on these ideas and put forward their own.”